Debt Relief Order (DRO)
A Debt Relief Order is a formal option in England and Wales for people with low debts, low surplus income and few assets, which freezes debts for 12 months and may then write them off.
Also known as: DRO, DROs, debt relief order
You must apply through an approved intermediary, such as a debt charity. The limits on debts, surplus income and assets are set by the government and have been raised in recent years, so check the current figures on GOV.UK. Creditors included in the DRO cannot take action while it is in force.
After 12 months, if your circumstances have not improved, the qualifying debts are written off. A DRO affects your credit file for six years and is recorded on the Individual Insolvency Register.
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This page provides general information only. It is not personalised financial, legal or tax advice, and rules and figures can change. Your situation is unique — please check official sources such as GOV.UK and MoneyHelper, and speak to a qualified, FCA-authorised adviser before making important decisions about your money.